Transparency International Ireland (TI Ireland) is an independent, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to stopping corruption and promoting integrity in Irish institutions. TI Ireland is a fully accredited chapter of the international coalition, Transparency International, with representation in over 100 countries.
The Role
TI Ireland seek qualified Psychotherapists, and Counselling or Clinical Psychologists to work on a sessional basis as part of its Psychological Support Service, providing support to people who have raised concerns of wrongdoing through the Speak Up Helpline.
Whistleblowers in particular, can suffer high levels of stress and anxiety before, during and after reporting wrongdoing, often as a result of the actions of those who are engaged in, or are attempting to cover up wrongdoing.
According to recent research, the psychological stresses borne by whistleblowers can be equivalent to those experiencing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. This can lead to long term health consequences, have an impact on relationships, family life and career prospects.
TI Ireland Psychological Support Service – established by TI Ireland in 2023, is made up of a panel of psychologists and qualified psychotherapists to provide confidential, qualified, specialist psychological support to Speak Up Helpline clients.
Responsibilities
- Providing therapy face to face, over the telephone, or online as required
- Working with individuals, families or groups
- Keeping confidential records
- Building a relationship of trust and respect with clients
- Listening to clients' concerns, empathising with them, and helping them develop their personal resources to manage difficult situations, while signposting to other mental health services if additional or specialised support is required
Personal Qualities
- Strong empathy and communication skills
- A non-judgemental approach
- Patient, calm manner with the ability to help people relax
- Ability to cope with emotional situations
- Ability to relate to and adapt communication style to suit a wide range of people
- Self-awareness and the ability to examine own thoughts and values
Qualifications and professional experience
Applicants must possess either:
- A degree or post-graduate qualification in psychotherapy recognised by one of the following, as appropriate: Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP), or one of the five sections within the Irish Council for Psychotherapy (ICP)
- Have full accredited membership with one of the following: IACP, or a relevant body within ICP.
OR
- Hold a post-graduate qualification in counselling psychology or clinical psychology recognised by the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI),
- Have commenced the registration process with the PSI or be fully registered with the clinical or counselling psychology division of PSI.
In addition:
- Therapists must have a minimum of two years’ relevant post qualification experience (This requirement may not apply in respect of some full-time post-graduate qualifications)
- Therapists will be required to complete training in working with whistleblowers and witnesses, and their specific therapeutic needs
- Participate in clinical supervision by a qualified psychologist appointed by TI Ireland
- Work within the procedures and policies of TI Ireland
Desirable:
- Familiarity with organisational processes and workplace dynamics
- Experience working within an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) setting
Duration and Fees - One year, with possibility of renewal. Panel members will be paid a fee of €80 per hour for each hour of individual or group therapy provided. As the service is provided to clients on demand, no commitment can be made to therapists on the number of hours for which they will be engaged.
Application Closing Date: 18 April 2025
Please send a CV and covering letter to mquesnell@transparency.ie by 18/04/25. It is essential that the covering letter concisely addresses (in no more than 500 words) their motivation for applying for a position on the panel and relevant experience for the role
The CV should ideally be two pages long. CVs longer than three pages will not be considered. Experience should be presented in reverse chronological order and the names and positions of two referees should be provided. Contact details of referees are not necessary at this stage.
A selection process will also apply. For further details about the role please email mquesnell@transparency.ie.